FlightPath Podcast: John and Johnny Foster of OgaraJets

In the latest episode of FlightPath, the business aviation podcast hosted by FLYING Finance chief commercial officer Preston Holland, the spotlight is on John Foster III and John “Johnny” Foster IV from OgaraJets. The Fosters shared their extensive experience and insights into the business aviation industry, detailing their personal journeys, the history of OgaraJets, and the evolution of the aviation market.

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What You’ll Find in This Episode

Early Career of John Foster III

John Foster III's passion for aviation began in college, influenced by a U.S. Navy program that offered flight training.

His first flight in a Cessna 150 marked the beginning of a career in aviation that included flying fighters and test aircraft for the military. After his military career, John transitioned to the business aviation sector, responding to an advertisement in the Wall Street Journal, which led to a job at Atlantic Aviation and later Hangar One, a Beechcraft distributor.

Early Days of OgaraJets

In 1980, amid a recession, John Foster III and his friend Ed O'Gara founded OgaraJets.

They faced numerous challenges but persevered by focusing on adding value to aircraft through overhauls and upgrades. This strategy helped them build a loyal customer base, even during tough economic times.

Foster Family Involvement

Johnny Foster IV, inspired by his father's dedication, joined the business after graduating from Colorado State University.

Initially, Johnny had aspirations in advertising but found his niche in the aviation industry, leveraging his marketing skills to enhance OgaraJets' operations. His early days in the company involved extensive travel and hands-on learning, which shaped his understanding of the business and importance of client relationships.

Evolution of the Business

Over the years, OgaraJets expanded from dealing primarily in King Airs to handling larger jets like Gulfstreams.

The company's growth was marked by a commitment to quality and integrity, ensuring it provided exceptional service to clients. Johnny Foster IV eventually took over the reins, steering the company through modern challenges and expanding the team significantly.